Discover Turkey's Timeless Treasures Adventure - 11 Days

Welcome to your tour in Istanbul! Upon arrival, we'll ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel, where you can take some time to relax and unwind. As the afternoon unfolds, feel free to explore the vibrant city at your leisure. To assist with your plans, information about the start of our tour will be conveniently available on the boards in the hotel reception. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

On our second day in Istanbul, we embark on a captivating city tour. We begin by visiting the majestic Süleymaniye Mosque, the largest in Istanbul. We continue to explore the ancient city walls and the Golden Horn, renowned for its vibrant fishing district. We can gaze at the exterior of the iconic Hagia Sophia, a symbol of rich history. Our tour also includes tickets to Topkapi Palace, once the administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire, celebrated for its splendid courtyards and pavilions.

In the afternoon, you have free time to explore the sprawling city, which spans the continents of Europe and Asia. As the day winds down, we provide a transfer to Taksim, the city's bustling commercial hub. Here, you can savour dinner at one of the numerous local restaurants and perhaps see the nostalgic tram that still traverses the area. Alternatively, you may wish to visit the nearby Galata Tower for more delightful experiences.

Today, we will set sail on a boat trip along the Bosphorus, with tickets provided for this exclusive private excursion. As we glide through the strait that connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara, we'll witness the vibrant activity of the waterway, dotted with numerous vessels. The boat will carry us beneath the iconic bridges that join Europe and Asia, offering a unique perspective on the stunning Sultan's palaces, traditional wooden residences, and distinctive Ottoman architecture. Following this captivating two-hour journey, we'll return to the heart of Istanbul, where you'll have leisure time to explore the city at your own pace.

On the fourth day of our tour, we depart early from Istanbul, continuing our journey through the captivating landscapes of Turkey. By midday, we arrive at Ephesus, the most well-preserved ancient city of Asia Minor. Two millennia ago, it thrived as a vibrant metropolis, home to around 250,000 people. Our visit includes the Basilica of St. John, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the extensive archaeological site, with tickets included. Following our exploration of these historical marvels, we proceed to Kusadasi, a lively coastal town known for its bustling atmosphere and charming castle. We spend the night here, and dinner is included. Please note: during the high season from May to October, accommodation will be in Aydin instead of Kusadasi. In such cases, after our Ephesus adventure, we'll pause in Kusadasi from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. to enjoy a panoramic tour of the town before heading to Aydin for the night.

On the fifth day of our adventure, we set off early to experience one of Turkey's natural marvels, Lake Bafa. You'll find a moment of tranquillity as we pause to admire its serene landscape. Our journey continues to the enchanting city of Bodrum, steeped in Greek history and featuring a striking fortification. Here, you can delve into the grandeur of its castle, meander through vibrant streets teeming with visitors, or take a leisurely stroll around the bustling marina. After savouring a local lunch, we proceed to Marmaris, another picturesque coastal gem renowned for its historic castle, lively pier, and elegant fountains. As we settle in for the evening, dinner will be included, offering a delightful taste of Turkish cuisine. Please be aware that during the summer, our accommodation may be in the nearby town of Muğla instead of Marmaris.

Today, we journey to Dalyan, a charming location nestled along a scenic river. We begin with a one-hour boat ride, providing us with a breathtaking view of the Lycian Rock Tombs. Our exploration continues as we cruise onward to a large lake, where an opportunity to stop at the local hot springs awaits. Here, you may opt to take a dip in the soothing warm waters or treat yourself to a rejuvenating mud bath. You'll also have time to savour a meal at one of the riverside restaurants.

Our adventure then takes us to the vibrant city of Antalya. This coastal gem, home to over a million people, is famed for its rich history and stunning sights. Key highlights include Hadrian’s Gate, the historic Ottoman district, and a mesmerising waterfall cascading directly into the sea. Dinner is included as part of our stay in this delightful city.

On the seventh day, we depart from Antalya, heading towards Aspendos to explore its renowned Roman theatre, acclaimed as one of the most well-preserved globally. Our journey then takes us to Side, where you can admire the picturesque Temple of Apollo situated by the sea. You’ll also have time to wander through the bustling port and vibrant streets of this charming town. Continuing our adventure, we traverse the stunning landscapes of the Taurus Mountains, with peaks soaring over 3,500 metres and often blanketed in snow. In Karaman, we pause briefly to view its formidable fortress from the outside. Our final destination today is the captivating region of Cappadocia, where we’ll conclude the day with dinner in Nigde.

Today, we immerse ourselves in the captivating region of Cappadocia, renowned for its unique, moon-like landscapes, ancient churches, and troglodyte villages. Our day begins with a visit to Gumusler, a fascinating 7th-century underground monastery that boasts some of Turkey's most exquisite Byzantine frescoes. We then delve into the depths of Kaymakli, exploring an astonishing underground city which once sheltered up to 30,000 inhabitants. Our adventure continues to Uchisar, where a natural fortress rewards us with breathtaking panoramic views. After a midday break, we explore the Göreme Valley, home to an open-air museum where you can admire remarkable rock-cut churches—entry tickets are included. As the day winds down, we settle in Avanos for our overnight stay, with dinner provided.

Today, we embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Anatolia, traversing terrains that gradually become lush and verdant as we head north. Our destination is the quaint city of Safranbolu, arriving by early afternoon. This charming city, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once an important stop on ancient caravan routes. Here, in the evocative atmosphere of a lovingly preserved caravanserai courtyard, you'll have the opportunity to savour a cup of traditional Turkish tea. Dinner will be included, allowing you to further immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of this remarkable location.

Today, we will journey along the picturesque coast of the Black Sea, renowned for its verdant scenery. Our first destination is Gökgöl Magrasi, where your admission to explore this stunning cave, complete with an underground river and an array of vibrant hues, is included. Following this, you will reach the coastal town of Eregli on the Black Sea. Here, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a leisurely lunch. In the afternoon, we will visit the fascinating Cehennemagzi caves and tombs, steeped in ancient mythology. By the end of the day, we will make our way back to bustling Istanbul.

Following breakfast, our journey concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of your adventure.